audio researchREFERENCE 300

Description
Tube mono power amplifier.

From the ARC website

In late 1995, Audio Research introduced the REFERENCE 600 Monoblock Power Amplifiers and the companion Stereo Line
Preamplifier, the REFERENCE ONE. Worldwide recognition of the sonic supremacy of these models was quickly forthcoming,
with both models winning the hearts of many, many purchasers as well as audio reviewers.

But technology doesn't stand still -- especially at Audio Research! A number of ardent music lovers have asked for a
REFERENCE power amplifier with slightly less output and more room-friendly dimensions. This amplifier is now available
as the REFERENCE 300. Suggested U.S. retail price is $11,995 each or $23,990 the pair.

With almost 300 watts of vacuum-tube output power and vacuum-tube power supply regulation, the REF300 monoblocks
incorporate a number of refinements over the original REF600 model. Among the many improvements are output-stage
constant current bias regulation and redesigned power-supply voltage regulators. Although the REF300 is smaller,
quieter and cooler-running (fewer output tubes and two internal cooling fans instead of four), many owners will never
notice the reduction in output power compared to the REF600. Together, these changes result in an astonishing level of
sonic improvement over the original REF600 design. Bass notes are defined with more body and accuracy; highs are better
focused and more extended; and musical dynamics are more vividly portrayed against a backdrop of natural recorded
ambience. The sense of "hearing through" the equipment is the best ever, in our opinion. One listen, and you will know
that a new, higher standard for accurate music reproduction has once again been established.

At the same time, the convenience and flexibility of the original REF600 has been preserved. Front-panel controls
and large, illuminated analog meters allow easy output-tube biasing, A.C. line voltage monitoring, and power-output
observation. In addition, a 20-amp three-pin A.C. connector with detachable heavy-gauge line cord are now standard.

Introduced
1999

Discontinued
2005

Revisions
REFERENCE 300MKII (2001)

From the ARC website

When introduced a little over two years ago, the REF300 monoblocks created as much of a stir among audiophiles and
music lovers as the larger REF600s did when first introduced in late 1995. Well, we're happy to announce that REF300
owners now have good reason to be excited all over again with the introduction of the new and improved REF300MKII.

First, the sonic improvements embodied in the MKII version are nothing short of monumental. The MKII has much more
apparent speed than the original, and conveys microdynamics and subtle timbrel details with much higher resolution.
Image focus, the sense of body given to notes and voices, and tonal coherence from high frequencies to bass notes are
all noticeably better. There is a sense of seamless resolution in the sound stage which, through an appropriate
loudspeaker system, is simply mesmerizing with well-recorded material. Finally, the sense of power conveyed by these
amplifiers is much more apparent on big dynamic swings -- they have effortless muscle when called for, yet they are
capable of amazing delicacy in the next moment. This uncanny ability conveys the same kind of natural intensity and
immediacy that listeners have heard from the very successful VTM200 monoblocks.

These sonic improvements are the result of important advances in power supply regulation and driver-stage technology
developed over the last year by Audio Research engineers. Incorporating the proven J-FET input for initial gain and low
noise, additional gain is accomplished by a 6N1P twin triode, which is direct-coupled to four 6H30 twin triodes used as
cathode followers to drive the 6550C output stage. These tubes in the audio gain path are run very conservatively for
long service life. On the power supply side, one 6N1P preregulator drives three rugged 6AS7 regulator tubes. With these
improved regulators, the power supply and driver circuits are now able to track the incoming signal much more quickly.
The result is sonic power combined with delicacy, air and the trademark High Definition® sound.

Control functions, input and output configuration remain unchanged on the MKII, with the exception of the addition
of a 12V input /output for remote linkage in custom installations.

Factory upgrades are available. New regulation and driver tubes are included in the cost of the upgrade, as is a
two-year Limited Warranty extension (90 days on vacuum tubes). Improved sonic performance, a warranty extension and
enhanced resale value: that's product support as only Audio Research offers.

Options
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MSRP (US new retail)
$25,990/pair. Later increased to $29,990/pair.

Specifications

Power output

280 watts continuous at 16 ohms from 20Hz to 20kHz with less than 1%
total harmonic distortion (typically less than .05% at 1 watt). Typical power under average circumstances will be
around 290 watts. Maximum power under ideal conditions will be around 300 watts.